Matt, Indian Subcontinent & South Central Asia specialist

After graduating from Cardiff University I journeyed through Latin America, before living and working in Barcelona. After three years working with Audley, a second trip around the world beckoned. During this trip I spent time in Russia before taking the Trans-Mongolian train, staying with locals in Mongolia and trekking the ranges of Nepal, eventually ending up in India and Sri Lanka. The range and depth of culture offered in this part of the world continues to draw me back, especially the delicious fish curries of Kerala or traditional Sri Lankan hoppers for breakfast.

Since re-joining Audley I've spent extended time in Moscow and Saint Petersburg, before completing my Trans-Mongolian railway trip for a second time. Now, having spent many an hour watching the Siberian tundra pass on public trains, or enjoying the outstanding hospitality of the Golden Eagle private trains, I'm hooked.

The backwaters of Allepy in Kerala are packed full of history. Previously a system of canals used to move rice around Kerala, this vast network of waterways are home to hundreds of villages where life has changed little down the years. A houseboat or homestay on the water is the perfect way to take in the relaxed lifestyle of this beautiful corner of the country.

Vil Uyana close to Sigiriya rock was the perfect base for me to explore the region. As a wildlife lover I was amazed by the birdlife around the lake and paddyfields in the morning, while the resident naturalist guide took me on a night walk where we spotted the rare Slender Loris. The property is cleverly designed to fit into the landscape and the restaurant here is excellent, the perfect place to enjoy a cool drink after a day exploring.

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I'll never forget when…

Upon arriving at the ancient capital Anuradhapura I was taken aback to see thousands of Buddhists wearing pure white robes congregating around the stupas offering white lily flowers in the area's temples. A great example of the festivals you can stumble across while travelling throughout Sri Lanka.

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